Can I use a raft to escape a raid event near water?

In Valheim, using a raft to escape a raid event near water is a viable strategy, but it comes with specific challenges and considerations. Raid events, such as the Eikthyr raid or Greydwarf swarm, can be overwhelming, especially for new players. If you are near a body of water, a raft can provide a temporary escape route, but it requires careful planning and execution.\n\nFirst, you need to have a raft already built and ready to deploy. Crafting a raft requires 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. Leather Scraps are obtained from boars, while Resin drops from Greydwarfs. Ensure you have these materials before venturing into dangerous areas. Once crafted, the raft can be placed in shallow water, but it takes time to board and sail away, which can be risky during a raid.\n\nDuring a raid event, enemies will spawn near your base or your current location. If you are near water, you can quickly run to your raft and attempt to escape. However, enemies like Greydwarfs and Trolls can still attack you while you are boarding or sailing. The raft is slow and has limited maneuverability, making it difficult to outpace enemies if they are close. Additionally, ranged enemies, such as Greydwarf Shamans, can still hit you with projectiles while you are on the raft.\n\nTo improve your chances of escaping, position your raft in a safe spot before the raid begins. For example, if you are near the Black Forest biome, ensure your raft is docked in a shallow area where you can quickly access it. Keep your inventory light so you can run faster, and avoid carrying unnecessary items that might slow you down. If you are caught off guard, prioritize dodging enemy attacks while making your way to the raft.\n\nOnce on the raft, sail away from the shore as quickly as possible. The raft''s speed is limited, so you may need to use the wind to your advantage. In Valheim, wind direction affects sailing speed, so check the wind indicator at the top of the screen. If the wind is against you, you may need to zigzag or wait for it to change direction. Be aware that some enemies, like Trolls, can wade into shallow water and still attack you, so aim for deeper waters where they cannot follow.\n\nA practical example of using a raft to escape a raid is during the Eikthyr raid in the Meadows biome. If you are near a river or ocean, you can quickly board your raft and sail away from the deer-like enemies. However, if you are in the Black Forest and facing a Greydwarf swarm, the raft may not be as effective due to the dense enemy spawns and ranged attackers. In such cases, consider building a small dock or platform in the water to create a safe zone where enemies cannot reach you.\n\nIn summary, a raft can be a useful tool for escaping raid events near water, but it requires preparation and quick thinking. Always have a raft ready, position it in a safe spot, and be mindful of wind direction and enemy behavior. While the raft is not the fastest or most reliable escape method, it can buy you time to regroup and plan your next move. For more effective long-term solutions, consider building defensive structures or using stronger boats like the Karve or Longship.\n\nPractical tips: Always keep a raft near your base or exploration sites for emergencies. Use the environment to your advantage, such as hiding behind rocks or trees while boarding the raft. If you are frequently raided, consider building a moat or wall around your base to deter enemies. Finally, practice sailing in calm conditions to improve your skills and confidence when escaping under pressure.